Our First Epic Trip – Telluride

Telluride is one of those places that you can’t get out of your head once you have experienced it. We keep thinking back on how breathtaking this area of Colorado is. Too bad it is so far away.

After a short but scary drive (2 lane, windy road with massive drops) from Moab to Western Colorado, we were surprised by everything Telluride had to offer. And, it was 70 degrees during the day….much better than Moab.
After searching for a bit, we set up camp at one of the many free campgrounds outside of town. We found a spot near a big lake. This is the first time on our trip that we camped so deep in nature and away from light pollution. This was also the first time that we did not have electricity and running water. Being here made our souls feel alive.
The kids enjoyed exploring the area.
The town had a free Gondola that ran from the edge of town to Mountain Village (the ski mountain). This was very helpful to us since Maddie isn’t so much into hiking. We were able to ride up the mountain and hike down 3 miles.
Telluride also has a frigid river running through town. If you are crazy enough, you can get in and freeze.
This is the first place we visited where a camp fire was actually needed to stay warm. We spent many hours by the fire. After the first night, we learned that when the sun goes down, you go to bed. Otherwise, it is so cold that it takes forever to warm your bones. But, if you brave the cold, you will have an excellent view of the stars.
Sara decided that she wanted to live here until we got a good look at the non-summer weather. Telluride looks to have 2 seasons, cool and frozen. Besides, it is too far away from family.